Did you see the All-American Gift Guide in Successful Meetings’s May issue? This magazine, subtitled The Authority on Meetings and Incentives, chose products from all 50 states that they consider worthy of presenting to individuals who attend meetings and conventions.

I wrote an article about working with meeting planners and am glad that the Successful Meeting’s article provides more inspiration.

No gift baskets were selected for giving, but as you review the article, you’ll see that many gift basket components are featured. That includes everything from a handmade Arizona basket to Kansas trail mixes to New Jersey salt water taffy.

Keep in mind that this list offers “unique gifts and edible treats under $20, along with a higher-end suggestion for good measure.” So if you’re looking to satisfy meeting planners who plan to bring hundreds of visitors to your state, no-basket gifts might make the most impact to get the sale.

Look at one gift from Pennsylvania as a model.

“The Welcome Box from A Little Bit of Philly includes two bags of Herr’s Potato Chips, two packages of Tasty Cakes, and two waters or sodas. $12″

The actual box isn’t shown in the magazine’s print version, but use your imagine and connections to select a petite box to represent your state. How about a tote bag or a handled, carryall boxes sold by many suppliers? Those boxes will hold a variety of items made in your state.

Best of all, this type of mega-ordered gift won’t require lots of styling. Items and literature are placed into the container, the ends are closed, and the welcome gift is ready for presentation.

Have you offered this type of welcome gift to meeting planners? Does this idea provide you with inspiration to approach these buyers?

Shirley George Frazier

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